Are you a working-from-home parent with a toddler?
Finding it challenging to keep them occupied while you work?
How to keep toddlers busy while working from home can seem impossible. But with a few strategic tips, it can be manageable.
The key to keeping your toddler busy while working from home lies in these simple things:
- Set up a dedicated play area
- Use educational toys and activities
- Schedule online activities
- Encourage creative play
- Create a routine with breaks
- Use screen time wisely
With these ideas in mind, let’s delve deeper into specific approaches and examples.
1. Set Up a Dedicated Play Area
Creating a specific play area for your toddler can make a huge difference.
A dedicated space with their favorite toys can keep them entertained for hours.
Try setting up a play tent, laying down soft mats, and organizing toys in a way that’s easy for your child to access.
This not only keeps them occupied but also helps in teaching them to play independently.
Some Items You Can Try:
- Play Tent: Pacific Play Tents, Kids Play Tent
- Soft Mats: ProSource Kids Puzzle Alphabet, Number, and Animal Mats
- Toy Storage: Delta Children Deluxe Toy Organizer
2. Use Educational Toys and Activities
Educational toys are great for keeping toddlers engaged while also promoting learning.
Building blocks, puzzles, and art stuff can grab their interest and get them thinking.
Drawing, coloring, and simple puzzles can keep them busy while you work nearby.
These toys encourage creativity and problem-solving skills, making them perfect for solo play.
Some Items You Can Try:
- Building Blocks: LEGO DUPLO My First Number Train
- Puzzles: Melissa & Doug Wooden Jigsaw Puzzles
- Art Supplies: Crayola Color Wonder Mess-Free Coloring Kit
Related Reading: Quiet Time with Toddlers: The Parenting Hack For Working Parents
3. Schedule Online Activities
Online activities and virtual playdates can be a lifesaver.
You can find interactive storytime, music classes, and exercise videos for toddlers online.
Look on YouTube Kids, PBS Kids, and library websites for engaging content for your toddler
These platforms can keep your toddler engaged and give them some structured playtime.
Some Platforms You Can Try:
- Storytime: Storyline Online
- Music Classes: GoNoodle
- Exercise Sessions: Cosmic Kids Yoga
4. Encourage Creative Play
Creative play is essential for toddler development and can be very engaging.
Get them to draw, color, and build with blocks. Setting up a mini art station or creating a DIY craft box will keep them busy for hours.
These activities will entertain your child and boost their motor skills and creativity.
Some Items You Can Try:
- Drawing Supplies: Melissa & Doug Easel and Art Supplies
- Building Sets: Mega Bloks First Builders Bag
- Craft Box: KiwiCo Craft Kits for Kids
Related Reading: Quiet Time Ideas for Toddlers You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner
5. Create a Routine with Breaks
A structured routine is beneficial for both toddlers and parents.
Create a daily schedule with playtimes, snack breaks, and quiet times. It makes your day more predictable and manageable.
For example, you can start with morning playtime.
Then take a snack break.
Continue with having quiet time with books or puzzles.
And finish with playing before lunch.
6. Use Screen Time Wisely
While it’s important to limit screen time, using it wisely can be a helpful tool.
Educational shows and apps can be engaging and informative.
Your toddler can learn while having fun. They’ve got options like “Sesame Street” and “Peppa Pig”, and engaging apps like ABCmouse.
Some Programs and Apps You Can Try:
- Educational Shows: “Sesame Street,” “Peppa Pig“
- Educational Apps: ABCmouse, Khan Academy Kids
Plan and Creativity Will Make It Easier
A bit of planning and creativity can keep your toddler busy while you work from home. Consistency helps create a balanced environment for both of you.
Remember, It takes time to find the right balance. So, don’t hesitate to seek help and adjust your strategies as needed.
Got any tips or experiences to share? Drop them in the comments below. I’m excited to know!